Description
These High Protein Teriyaki Salmon Bites are a delicious and nutritious dish featuring tender salmon pieces marinated and coated in savory teriyaki sauce, then pan-seared to perfection. Garnished with toasted black sesame seeds and paired with creamy avocado, shelled edamame, and steamed rice, this quick and flavorful recipe makes for a wholesome meal that’s rich in protein and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Bites
- 1 lb salmon filet (skin-on preferred, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces)
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (Kikkoman recommended)
- Avocado oil spray
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Toasted black sesame seeds (for garnish and nutty flavor)
To Serve
- 1 large avocado (sliced just before serving)
- Teriyaki sauce for drizzling
- Shelled edamame (fresh or frozen, cooked)
- Steamed rice
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the salmon filet into 1-inch bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Pat them dry gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon pieces in a bowl and toss with 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce. Let them marinate for about 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- Heat the Pan: Spray a non-stick skillet or frying pan with avocado oil spray and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Cook the Salmon Bites: Arrange the marinated salmon pieces in a single layer in the pan. Let them sear without moving for about 3-4 minutes to develop a caramelized crust, then carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through but still moist and flaky inside.
- Season and Garnish: Season the salmon bites lightly with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle toasted black sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Prepare the Sides: While the salmon cooks, steam the shelled edamame and rice according to package instructions. Slice the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the teriyaki salmon bites over steamed rice alongside the shelled edamame and avocado slices. Drizzle additional teriyaki sauce over the salmon and garnish as desired for a complete, protein-rich meal.
Notes
- Use skin-on salmon for added flavor and texture, but you can remove skin if preferred.
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes may cause the salmon to break down and become mushy due to the sauce’s acidity and sugars.
- Freshly ground black pepper enhances flavor more than pre-ground pepper.
- To toast black sesame seeds, lightly toast them in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, approximately 2 minutes.
- Avocado slices should be added last to keep their vibrant color and creamy texture.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the teriyaki sauce is certified gluten-free.
